Anthocyanin is involved in the activation of pyroptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Background The anti-carcinogenic effects of anthocyanin are well documented. Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common and lethal cancer types due to its high degree of malignancy and poor prognosis. The main purpose of the current study was to investigate the potential inhibitory effects of anthocyanin on oral squamous cell carcinoma and identify effective targets for therapy. Methods Cell viability was measured using cell counting kit-8 (CCK8). Cell migration and invasion abilities were determined using scratch-wound and Transwell invasion assays, respectively. mRNA and protein expression patterns of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), caspase-1 and IL-1β were detected using qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence and western blot. The gasdermin D (GSDMD) level was determined via confocal microscopy and western blot. Results Anthocyanin reduced the viability of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells and inhibited migration and invasion abilities. Simultaneously, activation of pyroptosis was associated with enhanced expression of NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β. Upon administration of caspase-1 inhibitors, anthocyanin-activated pyroptosis was suppressed and cell viability, migration, and invasion rates concomitantly enhanced. Conclusion Anthocyanin promotes the death of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells through activation of pyroptosis and inhibits tumor progression.